HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING: Waynesboro ready for the 2013-14 season

The Waynesboro Indians wrestling team is short on experience. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

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By Lee Goodwin

Waynesboro Record Herald - Waynesboro, PA

By Lee Goodwin

Posted Dec. 11, 2013 at 10:00 AM

By Lee Goodwin

Posted Dec. 11, 2013 at 10:00 AM

WAYNESBORO — The Waynesboro Indians wrestling team is short on experience.

But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

There’s plenty of talent on the youthful team entering the 2013-14 season. Head coach Eric Mowen is looking forward to the campaign as the Indians seek to not only make inroads in the competitive Mid-Penn Colonial Division, but compete to advance wrestlers into the District 3 championships and beyond.

Waynesboro begins the season on Saturday at the Muhlenberg Tournament. The Indians will wrestle Pottsville, Central Dauphin East, Muhlenberg, Brandywine and Hershey.

“We are young — but an experienced team that should finish with a winning record,” Mowen said. “Many of our kids participated in off-season workouts and wrestled for other clubs, so my expectations are high but reasonable.”

Mowen said Waynesboro’s strength will be in the lower weights. Neff and Layman will anchor the Tribe at 106 and 120, while Cuka is a returning 20-match winner from a year ago. Neff will compete at 120 pounds this season and Layman will wrestle at 132 pounds. Neff burst onto the varsity scene to win 22 matches last season. Layman wson 19 matches.

“I expect Austin Wise, who had a 14-1 JV record, and newcomer Elliott Swink, who had an outstanding middle school career, to help improve our chances,” Mowen said. “Our team chemistry and work ethic are much improved from past seasons, so I’m excited to see how this team responds in a very competitive district.”

Waynesboro will have to replace some experience due to the departures of Colby Mowen (126), Jesse Smith (145) and Andrew Paterno (225).

The Indians will forfeit the 195-pound weight class this season.

“Our depth and inexperience at several weight classes are a concern, but we are very strong mentally and physically,” Mowen said. “My staff and I will evaluate the team’s health, conditioning and practices to help eliminate injuries and fatigue throughout the season, which should help us stay strong and competitive.”